A nurse is providing teaching to a client about adverse effects of atorvastatin. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)
Elevated liver enzymes
Muscle weakness
Alopecia
Dry cough
Jaundice
Correct Answer : A,B,E
A. Elevated liver enzymes: Atorvastatin can cause hepatotoxicity, which may be indicated by elevated liver enzyme levels. Monitoring liver function tests is essential during therapy, and clients should be taught to report symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or dark urine.
B. Muscle weakness: Myopathy, including muscle pain or weakness, is a known adverse effect of atorvastatin. Severe cases can progress to rhabdomyolysis, so clients should report unexplained muscle discomfort promptly.
C. Alopecia: Hair loss is not a recognized adverse effect of atorvastatin. It does not commonly affect hair follicles or lead to alopecia.
D. Dry cough: A dry cough is more commonly associated with ACE inhibitors, not atorvastatin. It is not considered an adverse effect of statin therapy.
E. Jaundice: Jaundice can occur if atorvastatin causes significant liver injury, leading to elevated bilirubin levels. Clients should be taught to report yellowing of the skin or eyes immediately.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Store the medication vial in a freezer until ready for use: Insulin should never be frozen, as freezing alters its molecular structure and renders it ineffective. It should be refrigerated until opened.
B. Let the medication warm to room temperature prior to administration: Allowing insulin glargine to reach room temperature before injection reduces local discomfort and ensures consistent absorption. This is the recommended practice for all insulin types.
C. Store opened vials at room temperature for up to 3 months: Opened insulin vials may be kept at room temperature for up to 28 days, not 3 months. Extended storage at room temperature increases the risk of potency loss.
D. Agitate the medication vial between the palms of the hands before use: Insulin glargine is a clear solution and should not be agitated or mixed. Shaking can cause air bubbles or damage the insulin molecules, leading to inaccurate dosing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I should notify my doctor if I have vomiting and diarrhea.": Vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and sodium loss, which increases the risk of lithium toxicity. Promptly notifying the healthcare provider allows for dose adjustment or additional monitoring to maintain safe serum levels.
B. "I should avoid consuming food for at least an hour after I take my medication.": Lithium can be taken with or without food, and taking it with meals may actually help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Avoiding food is unnecessary and may worsen adherence or side effects.
C. "I should restrict my fluid intake.": Restricting fluids can lead to dehydration, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity. Clients should maintain adequate hydration while on lithium therapy.
D. "I can expect to lose weight while taking this medication.": Lithium therapy is more commonly associated with weight gain rather than weight loss. Expecting weight loss reflects a misunderstanding of potential side effects.
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